Taiwan Earthquake 2025
A powerful 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck southern Taiwan early on January 21, 2025, prompting the evacuation of factories operated by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). The quake, which occurred at 12:17 AM local time, was centered near Dapu Township in Chiayi C southern Taiwanounty and was felt as far away as Taipei. Fortunately, there were no major casualties reported, although 27 individuals sustained minor injuries
Southern Taiwan Earthquake Details
The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 38 kilometers southeast of Chiayi County Hall, at a depth of 10 kilometers. The tremor reached a peak intensity of level 6 in the vicinity, with level 5 reported in Tainan and Kaohsiung. TSMC, a key player in the global semiconductor industry, immediately activated its emergency protocols, evacuating employees and shutting down machinery in its Central and Southern Taiwan Science Parks.
TSMC’s Response on Southern Taiwan Earthquake
In a statement, TSMC confirmed that all employees were safe and that they returned to their work sites just hours after the quake. The company conducted thorough inspections of its facilities to assess any potential damage. Fortunately, no significant structural issues were found, and essential services such as water and electricity remained unaffected.
Southern Taiwan Earthquake – Impact on Operations
Despite the initial disruptions, TSMC reported that operations returned to normal by the morning of January 21. The company is known for producing advanced chips used in artificial intelligence and mobile devices for major clients like Nvidia and Apple. The earthquake did not hinder ongoing construction of new facilities, which continued as planned.
Southern Taiwan Earthquake Casualties and Damage
While TSMC’s operations were largely unaffected, the earthquake did result in minor injuries to 27 individuals, including six people rescued from a collapsed house in Tainan. Local authorities reported that several homes experienced damage, with some ceilings caving in and individuals trapped in elevators due to falling debris. A fire at a printing factory in Chiayi was quickly extinguished, with no injuries reported.
Southern Taiwan Earthquake Conclusion
Taiwan’s geographical location makes it susceptible to seismic activity, and this recent earthquake serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability. TSMC’s swift response and effective emergency protocols ensured the safety of its employees and minimized disruption to its critical operations in the semiconductor industry. As the company continues to assess the situation, it remains committed to maintaining its production capabilities and supporting its global clients.